Remove Dye, Paint and Color Stains

Types of Dye, Paint and Color Stains

The first thing you need to do is identify what type of stain you’re dealing with. There are many types of dyes and paints, including:

• Food coloring
• Oil paint
• Acrylic paint
• Food dye
• Laundry dye
• Fabric paint
• Tempera paint
• Watercolor paint
• Emulsion paint
• Latex paint
• Puffy paint
• Gloss paint
• Hair dye
• Egg paint

No matter what type of color, dye or paint you’re dealing with, getting to the stain as quickly as possible increases your chances for removal.

Removing Dye, Paint and Color Stains: Step by Step

Need to remove paint from clothes or get rid of dye on your clothing quickly?

• Choose a detergent and stain remover that pairs well with the fabric type and color
• Scrape as much of the dye or paint off the fabric as possible
• Turn the clothing inside out and flush the stain with warm water from the back
• Apply the stain remover and wait at least 30 minutes
• Rinse and wash the clothing
• Check for any remaining stain

Choose a Detergent and Stain Remover

Check to see if the garment is washable, then select a stain remover that works well with the fabric type and color. Colored textiles will benefit from Persil Color Powder  while white fabrics need Persil Universal Powder/ Persil Universal Gel.

Pre-Treat the Stain

Scrape as much paint or dye as possible from the stained area, then turn the clothing inside out and place it under warm, running water. Working from the back of the stain helps keep the dye, paint or color from embedding in the fabric further. Apply your chosen detergent and stain remover to the area and let it set for 30 minutes. Rinse it with warm water again.

Wash Immediately

After you rinse the clothing, wash it immediately in the highest possible wash temperature using Persil Universal Powder or Persil Color Powder. When the fabric is clean, check to see if the stain is still there. If it is, repeat the process. Drying the clothing may set the stain.

How to Get Dye, Paint and Color Stains Out of Different Laundry Types and Fabrics

What happens if you accidentally get hair dye or paint on your upholstery, carpet or any other type of fabric that can’t be tossed in the washer? In this case, you’ll need to apply your paint and color stain remover, let it set for at least 30 minutes and then sponge it away with cold water. Blot the area dry to prevent mold and mildew development.

In most cases, removing dye and paint stains from sturdy fabrics like leather, cotton and denim is as easy as following the steps above. More delicate fabrics, however, like silk or wool, may not stand up well to paint or dye stains. Follow the removal steps, but always hand wash these fabrics. You may need to repeat the pre-treatment and washing steps several times to get rid of the stain.

Special Conditions for Dye, Paint and Color Stain Removal

Getting rid of hair dye or paint on clothing can be difficult, but it’s even harder when the clothing has dried. In many cases, hair dye will not come out after it has been through the dryer. One of the best solutions for dried, old, or running stains is to soak the garment in the detergent solution for at least two hours. Use the hand wash dosage for the detergent you opt for.

Homemade and Natural Stain Removers for Dye and Paint Stains

In some cases, natural stain removers or homemade stain removers may work well for removing hair dye and paint stains. However, they may create an even bigger problem. Certain home remedies, like hydrogen peroxide and lemon juice, may bleach colored clothing permanently. Other remedies, like rubbing alcohol and hairspray, may damage the fibers of delicate fabrics. When removing dye and paint stains, use instead detergents that are specifically made for cleaning your clothes and removing stains.

Struggling to get rid of hair dye or paint from your clothes? These stains are tricky to remove, but these steps can help.